Which Remodeler Will Work for Me?

   Call your local Better Business Bureau and your local government's consumer affairs office to see if they have information about any remodeler you are considering. Find out whether they have any outstanding complaints about the firm or any other relevant information on file.

   Ask the remodeler for:

• Local references and call the references to see if they were satisfied with the remodeler's work.
• If the company is insured against claims covering worker's compensation, property damage and personal liability.
• A copy of the certificate of insurance or ask for the name of the remodeler's insurance carrier and agency to verify that the remodeler has this insurance. In some areas, the law requires remodelers to carry such insurance. If licensing and/or bonding is required in your area, ask to see a copy of the document to ensure that the remodeler is properly licensed and/or bonded. Bonding requirements vary greatly from state to state; you should find out what your state requires and exactly what any required bonding covers.
• Examples of how he or she solved problems for other customers.  Evaluate the remodeler's problem-solving ability. Does he or she listen to your ideas, suggest ways to make them work and indicate enthusiasm for your job? Would you feel comfortable dealing with this person for the duration of the construction?

 Ask former custormers :

• Whether they would hire the remodeler again. If possible, go and look at finished projects.
• About the remodeler's reliability, quality level, problem-solving ability, accessibility and promptness.

  Strong rapport and close communication with a remodeler can make a job go well. To proceed, your answer to this question should be an unqualified yes.